It's year 23 for John Yanek as Freedom's volleyball coach and the longest tenured boss in the LVC hopes that having a bevy of experience back this season can translate into a fruitful spring.

The Patriots finished last season 10-8 and only lost seniors Dan Rodenbach and Josh Synoracki from a team that lost to Liberty in the District 11 3A quarterfinals last season.

Yanek now has his sights on regaining control of the East division, something that the Pates appear to be ready to do and more.

"We want to win the division," said Yanek. "Qualifying for the LVC playoffs and districts are also part of our goals."

Kevin McPeek, Keith Hendericks, Jude DePadua and Mike Daly return this season to bring them a veteran presence on the court. Newcomers Johnny Hart, Andrew Kutzler, Jon Vanderschauw and Bart Olivero figure to add depth to the Pates as well.

With the team poised to be solid in the passing, serving and defensive departments, Yanek wants to improve the teams blocking at this point.

With five seniors and two juniors making up the bulk of the lineup, the Pates hope to challenge the likes of Parkland, Emmaus, Whitehall and Northampton for the LVC and district titles.

"This is the last chance for our for our seniors in the program," Yanek said. "We need team unity and heart. These guys had good club seasons, but the biggest thing we have to do this year is bounce back from losses better. We need to focus on the whole season."